Kuantan: The launch of the Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint (RPTM) 2026-2035 marks a major step in building a human-centric nation by enabling underprivileged students and those with disabilities to continue their studies.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) vice-chancellor Prof Dr Yatimah Alias stated that the initiative provides free education to 10,000 students from low-income families through the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN), nearly double last year's 5,800 beneficiaries. Prof Dr Yatimah highlighted the government's commitment to inclusive higher education, emphasizing that with 10,000 tuition-free places, no student will be left behind.

The initiative removes financial barriers, allowing students to pursue higher education without interruption. UMPSA, through its foundation, offers additional support including excellence incentives, scholarships, laptop assistance, and the Campus Pantry programme. Other welfare support includes zakat for Muslim students, living allowances for non-Muslims, emergency aid, and various measures to ensure academic continuity.

Prof Dr Yatimah further noted that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced free education for approximately 3,000 students with disabilities across public universities, polytechnics, and community colleges, effective immediately. The aim is to ensure full participation in their studies within an inclusive learning ecosystem. UMPSA supports this through its Inclusive Technology and Ecosystem Hub (HATi), offering academic and psychosocial guidance, welfare counselling, and accessible facilities.

Moreover, UMPSA is upgrading its infrastructure to support students with disabilities, including the addition of wheelchair-accessible pathways, lifts, dedicated restrooms, and adapted learning spaces.